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Mini Countryman new car review – too big for its boots or is larger better?

Mini Countryman – New Car Review

How big can a Mini be before it is no longer mini? Looks like the German owners of the Mini brand feel there is no upper limit, for the latest Mini Countryman is even larger than before and can now be regarded by many as a mid-size family car.

With famous brand image and build-quality, plus increased practicality, the new Countryman is certainly going to please existing customers and win over a lot of potential new buyers.

Six Countryman variants are available, all with the Cooper prefix, with different engine outputs spanning 136 hp to 228 hp. There is also the option of a plug-in hybrid.

All except the hybrid have a 6-speed manual gearbox though there is the option of an automatic, and all-wheel-drive.

Mini purists might baulk at appearance, but …

To Mini purists, the Countryman’s exterior styling may look a little awkward but there will be no complaints about the larger interior space, which allows it to rival crossover models such as Audi Q2, Mazda CX-3, Peugeot 3008 and SEAT Ateca.

Prices start at £22,695 for the model featured, the entry level Countryman Cooper with the 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol engine and standard 6-speed manual gearbox. Top speed is 126 mph, the 0-60 mph time 9.6 seconds.

Fuel economy is 51.4 mpg combined.

New Mini Countryman not quite as nimble, but still Nippy

While this larger Mini heavier than the standard car and therefore is not quite as nimble, it is still nippy enough to add a fun factor to the driving.

The steering is precise and reacts swiftly, giving good grip and

composed handling. The ride is on the firm side, but acceptably so and overall, noise levels are low and the driving feel quite refined.

The larger cabin means four adults can travel in comfort, and five if the rear occupants are prepared to squeeze up.

The 40/20/40 rear seat fold configuration is useful for occupant and load variation and the boot space, up from 350 litres on the previous model to 450 litres on the latest, can extend to 1,390 litres with rear seats down. Interior materials have a quality look and feel and help make the cabin a pleasant place to be. The dashboard is lifted by chrome detailing, big dials and chunky switchgear and the overall impression is of classy durability.

This new Mini Countryman will be a hit with loyal fans and will convert others. While not as practical as some crossovers/compact SUVs, it has the bonus of a cool image and BMW-Mini build integrity.